Matteo Robina

Matteo Robina (3 April 1873-2 June 1912) was a general of the Mexican Army who fought and lost the Battle of El Raton Creek in 1911 during the Mexican Revolution.

Biography
Robina was born and raised in Hidalgo, Baja California, and was a Liberal Party supporter. His wealthy family purchased a commission for him in the artillery and he gained rank as a Lieutenant Colonel for putting down a 1905 uprising in Tamaulipas. In 1910 he was made a General by President Ignacio Sanchez in order to command an army that he assembled out of conscripts, and in 1911 was given orders to move out to Saltillo with ten cannon to meet up with a larger army. At El Raton Creek he was ambushed by Rebeldes and defied orders to protect his cannon, instead trying to flee. He was captured by Rebeldes cavalry commander Jose Casaroja before he could escape. Robina was stripped of his valuables and money before being released into the wild with only his undershirt, pants, and socks.

Robina was believed to have survived the winter by taking refuge in Saltillo incognito, and in March 1912 he attempted to journey back to Mexico City to recollect his duty. However, he was arrested upon his arrival in the city by Federales loyal to the new president, Abraham Reyes, as he was unaware of the change in government. Robina was tried for dereliction of duty as well as treason, and he was sentenced to death.

Death
General Matteo Robina was sentenced to death by such words: "...for treason against President Reyes and the state of Mexico, for dereliction of his military or civic duties, and for bearing arms against the government". Robina was tied to a post in Mexico City and executed by a firing squad of ten Federales.